1986 Ford E150 problems

ford logo

The Ford E-Series (also known as the Ford Econoline, Ford Econovan or Ford Club Wagon) is a range of full-size vans manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company. Introduced for 1961 as the replacement of the Ford F-Series panel van, four generations of the model line have been produced. Marketed for both cargo and passenger transport configurations, the E-Series has been designed with multiple design variations for both retail and commercial sale, including vans, and commercial-grade cutaway van chassis and stripped chassis (a chassis without bodywork).

With over 8.2 million units sold since 1961, the Ford E-Series is the third-best selling van line in history (outranked only by the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter). Ford retired the E-Series passenger and cargo vans after 2014, replacing them with the Ford Transit. As of current production, the E-Series remains offered exclusively in cutaway and stripped-chassis configurations. In 2021, the model line entered its 60th year of production (becoming the second current Ford line to do so).

The E-Series (cutaway/stripped chassis) is assembled by Ford at its Ohio Assembly facility (Avon Lake, Ohio), which has produced the model line since 1975. Prior to its closure, Lorain Assembly (Lorain, Ohio) assembled the model line from 1961 to 2005.

1986 Ford E150

Social links

Common 1986 Ford E150 problems

Based on the information gathered from the sources provided, here is a detailed list of common problems reported by owners of the Ford E150 1986:

  1. Exhaust Leak from Broken Manifold Bolts:
    • The exhaust manifold collects engine emissions and can develop leaks due to extreme heat and temperature changes. This issue can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions.
    • The exhaust manifold is bolted to the engine, and over time, the extreme heat can cause the manifold bolts to break, resulting in leaks.
    • Regular inspection and maintenance of the exhaust system can help prevent this issue and ensure optimal engine performance.
  2. Transmission Failure:
    • Transmission failures have been reported in various model years of the Econoline, leading to issues with shifting gears and overall drivability.
    • Proper maintenance of the transmission, including regular fluid checks and changes, can help prevent premature transmission failure.
    • Addressing any unusual noises or difficulties in shifting gears promptly can help avoid costly transmission repairs.
  3. Spark Plugs Ejected from Poorly Threaded Engine Block:
    • In some model years, owners have experienced spark plugs being ejected from the engine block due to poor threading, leading to engine misfires and performance issues.
    • This problem can be prevented by ensuring that spark plugs are correctly installed and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
    • Regular inspection of the spark plug threads during maintenance can help identify any potential issues before they escalate.
  4. Broken Crankshaft, Engine Seized:
    • Instances of broken crankshafts leading to engine seizure have been reported in certain model years of the Econoline.
    • A broken crankshaft can cause catastrophic engine damage and result in the vehicle becoming inoperable.
    • Regular engine inspections and addressing any unusual noises or vibrations can help detect early signs of crankshaft issues and prevent engine failure.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and proactive inspection to ensure the longevity and reliability of the Ford E150 1986. By addressing these issues promptly and following recommended maintenance schedules, owners can mitigate the risk of experiencing these common problems and enjoy a smoother driving experience.

1986 Ford E150 engine

How much can a Ford e150 carry?

Payload Capacity:

The E-150 has a payload capacity of 3,220 pounds. The E-250 has a payload capacity of 3,470 pounds.

What is the fuel capacity of the Ford e150?

Fuel Tank

Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, ApproxNot Available gal
Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx35.0 gal

How long is a 2000 Ford e150?

211.9″2000 Ford E-150 / Length

How much horsepower does a Ford e150 have?

The standard engine is a 225 hp 4.6-liter V-8. There is also an optional 255 hp 5.4-liter V-8.

What is the fuel capacity of the Ford e150?

Fuel Tank

Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, ApproxNot Available gal
Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx35.0 gal

How much can a Ford e150 carry?

Payload Capacity:

The E-150 has a payload capacity of 3,220 pounds. The E-250 has a payload capacity of 3,470 pounds.

How much oil does a Ford e150 van take?

Oil Grade: SEO15

Viscosity:5W-20 (All TEMPS)
Capacity:6 quarts (with filter). When refilling, remove dipstick to provide adequate venting and allow oil to flow into crankcase. After refill, check oil level. Top off to proper level as needed.
Torque:10 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

What is the range of the Ford E van?

The available fully electric powertrain features a single-speed transmission and RWD electric motor that is powered by a 68kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a demonstrated range of 126 miles on the Cargo Van low-roof models,* helping to ensure you'll travel smoothly to and from each job site.

1986 Ford E150 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford E150 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Tires problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Ford E150 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Ford E150 complaints

The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Ford E150.

2003-03-07

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE THROTTLE STUCK, WHICH CAUSED UNWANTED SUDDEN ACCELERATION. ON ONE OCCASION THE THROTTLE BODY WAS DIRTY AND ON ANOTHER OCCASION, WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ON, THE VACUUM LINE MALFUNCTIONED. IN EITHER CASE, PRESSING DOWN ON THE BRAKE PEDAL DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE. THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE VEHICLE WAS TO TURN OFF THE IGNITION. *TT *JB
2003-02-28

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CRUISE CONTROL VACUUM LINE HAD KINKED WHILE THR CRUISE WAS ON, THE THROTTLE BODY HAD STUCK, AND THE BRAKE PEDAL HAD BECOME INOPERATIVE. SCC *JB
2000-09-29

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-12-22
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: DURING TEXAS TRIP, 1 TIRE WENT FLAT. UPON INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE CAUSE WAS TREAD SEPARATION. FOLLOWING SUMMER, OTHER TIRES WERE SHOWING SIMILAR BREAKDOWN (NOTELABLY DEEP CRACKS IN THE SIDEWALLS). I WENT BACK TO THE TIRE DEALER THAT HAD SOLD ME THE FIRESTONES AND BOUGHT NEW TIRES (NOT FIRESTONES). I ASKED THE DEALER TO INQUIRE ABOUT THE CRACKS WITH A FIRESTONE REP. I WAS NEVER APPRAISED AS TO THE REPS. ANSWER BUT WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT NEXT TIME I NEEDED TIRES I WOULD GET A GOOD DEAL ON THEM. SEEING AS THE TIRES WERE OLD, I FELT THIS WAS ABOUT THE BEST I COULD EXPECT. I DIDN'T THINK MUCH OF IT UNTIL I HEARD ABOUT THE PROBLEM WITH FIRESTONE LIGHT TRUCK TIRES ON THE RADIO TODAY. I STILL HAVE MY ORIGINAL RECEIPT FOR THE TIRES AND MAY STILL HAVE A PHOTOGRAPH OF THE TIRE THAT WAS REPLACED IT TEXAS. OBVIOUSLY, I NO LONGER HAVE THE TIRES. THEY WERE ORIGINALLY PURCHASED IN 1993. *AK (TIRESIZE: LTP235R15)( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: LTP235R15 )
1997-08-20

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-07-02
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: RIGHT REAR WHEEL FELL OFF, DAMAGING VEHICLE.
1996-08-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-06-26
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FTDE14M26H
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: IGNITION SWITCH SHORTED, CAUSING FIRE, BURNING WIRING HARNESS UNDER THE HOOD.
1996-08-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WIRING HARNESSES BURNT OUT.
1996-06-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1993-06-28
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: IFDDE14N4GH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT TO IAR ALTERNATOR GETS TOO HOT START TO ARC AND SHORTS OUT. RESULTING IN VEHCILE FIRE. *AK
1996-04-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-10-04
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FDEE14H7GH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: AFTER PARKING CAR, NOTICED WHITE SMOKING COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE CAR, THEN NOTICED FIRE, POSSIBILE ELECTRICAL SHORT. *AK
1996-04-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-10-04
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FDEE14H7GH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: AFTER PARKING CAR, NOTICED WHITE SMOKING COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE CAR, THEN NOTICED FIRE, POSSIBILE ELECTRICAL SHORT. *AK
1995-09-14

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1993-08-30
  • VIN: 1FDEE14N3GH
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WORN BUSHINGS, CAUSING STEERING TO BECOME LOOSE. *DSH
Leave your review of 1986 Ford E150

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1986 Ford E150 problems:

Ford E150: Hello I have a 1986 E150 2WD auto, 5.0ltr fuel injected
Ford E150: Hello I have a 1986 E150 2WD auto, 5.0ltr fuel injected
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/7pky0-ford-e150-hello-1986-e150-2wd-auto-5-0ltr-fuel-injected.html

Apr 18, 2013 ... ... 1986 has had many known issues with the ignition module and distributor stator failing when they heat up and when this happens you loose spark.

Alternator Belt (V-belt) squealing on 1986 E150 6cyl 300.... common ...
Alternator Belt (V-belt) squealing on 1986 E150 6cyl 300.... common ...
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1326779-alternator-belt-v-belt-squealing-on-1986-e150-6cyl-300-common-issue.html

Jul 23, 2014 ... Ford Inline Six, 200, 250, 4.9L / 300 - Alternator Belt (V-belt) squealing on 1986 E150 6cyl 300.... common issue?

1988 Ford Econoline Van: Common Problems & Q&A
1988 Ford Econoline Van: Common Problems & Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/agail-bought-1988-ford-econoline-van-302-engine.html

May 30, 2017 ... I have a 1986 ford E150 econoline van with a 302 in it that ... Customer reply. no.

Ford 4.9l reliability and problems| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
Ford 4.9l reliability and problems| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/ford-49l-reliability-and-problems/110220/page1/

... common problems with them... Last one I had was in an e150 with blown head gasket... spitfirebill PowerDork 2/6/16 11:30 a.m..

`89 7.3ltr V-Belt Vibration Problems - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
`89 7.3ltr V-Belt Vibration Problems - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/23291-89-7-3ltr-v-belt-vibration-problems.html

Jul 19, 2001 ... Alternator Belt (V-belt) squealing on 1986 E150 6cyl 300.... common issue? Belt squeal at a/c compressor · Pre-Power Stroke Diesel (7.3L IDI & ...

Other years of Ford E150

ford e150 1987 photo
E150 1987
Ford

18

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford e150 1988 photo
E150 1988
Ford

15

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford e150 1989 photo
E150 1989
Ford

33

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford e150 1990 photo
E150 1990
Ford

15

3

1

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford e150 2006 photo
E150 2006
Ford

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford e150 1976 photo
E150 1976
Ford

3

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1986 Ford E150?

Add car complaint
1986 Ford E150 photo